Toronto Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems

Toronto , Canada

Toronto Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems

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About this experience

What if I told you that most travelers never really see Toronto? They snap photos of the CN Tower, stroll along the waterfront, and think they’ve discovered the city, but they miss the hidden streets, local stories, and historic corners that give Toronto its true character.

Without a local guide, it’s easy to overlook the neighborhoods, architecture, and tales that make the city unique. Exploring alone might show you the landmarks, but you’ll miss the heartbeat of Toronto and the secrets that only insiders know.

This Toronto Walking Tour lets you experience the city like a local. Your guide adapts the walk to your interests, taking you through the iconic sights and the hidden gems most visitors never find. Discover Toronto beyond the surface, authentic, historic, and unforgettable.

Available options

Toronto Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems

What's included

2-hour guided walking tour

Professional tour guide

Detailed itinerary

The Old City Hall in Toronto is a historic landmark located in the heart of downtown. Completed in 1899, it served as Toronto's city hall for over 60 years. Designed by architect E.J. Lennox, the building features Romanesque Revival architecture, with its impressive clock tower and intricate stone carvings. Today, Old City Hall is home to courtrooms, and its grand facade remains a symbol of Toronto's architectural heritage.

Stop 2

Dundas Square is located at the intersection of Yonge and Dundas streets in downtown Toronto, is a vibrant public space often compared to New York's Times Square. Known for its bright, towering digital billboards and lively atmosphere, it serves as a hub for events, concerts, and public gatherings. Opened in 2003, the square has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals, surrounded by shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Dundas Square is a symbol of the dynamic, urban energy that defines Toronto's city center.

St. James Cathedral is one of the city's most iconic religious landmarks. Built in the Gothic Revival style, the cathedral was completed in 1853 and is the home of the Anglican Diocese of Toronto. Its towering spire, one of the tallest in Canada, is a defining feature of the city's skyline. Inside, the cathedral features stunning stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a historic organ.

There are a few more stops along the way, but we’ll keep those as a surprise to make your experience even more special.

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the stage in Nathan Phillips Square. It is on the left of the Toronto sign. Your guide will be standing in the shade, but if you don't see him immediately, just walk around the stage. He will be there wearing a lanyard with his name on it.

About Toronto

Toronto is Canada's largest city and a vibrant multicultural hub known for its towering skyscrapers, diverse neighborhoods, and rich cultural scene. It's a city where modernity and tradition blend seamlessly, offering a dynamic urban experience with a welcoming atmosphere.

Top Attractions

CN Tower

The CN Tower is an iconic landmark of Toronto and one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. It offers panoramic views of the city and a thrilling EdgeWalk experience.

Architecture 1-2 hours $38 CAD for general admission

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

The ROM is Canada's largest museum of natural history and world cultures. It features a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and contemporary art.

Museum 2-3 hours $23 CAD for adults

Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. With beautiful beaches, scenic trails, and stunning views of the skyline, it's a perfect spot for picnics, cycling, and relaxation.

Nature Half-day to full day $8.25 CAD round trip ferry ticket

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Ripley's Aquarium is a fascinating underwater world featuring a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and penguins. It's an exciting and educational experience for all ages.

Attraction 1-2 hours $42.99 CAD for adults

Distillery District

The Distillery District is a historic and charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, Victorian-era buildings, and vibrant arts scene. It's a great place for shopping, dining, and cultural events.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, varies for shops and restaurants

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poutine

A classic Canadian dish consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Main Dish Contains dairy and gluten

Butter Tarts

A sweet pastry filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, syrup, and sometimes raisins or pecans.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Peameal Bacon Sandwich

A Toronto specialty featuring peameal bacon (back bacon rolled in cornmeal) served on a bun.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains pork

Nanaimo Bars

A no-bake dessert square with a crumb base, a light custard-flavored butter icing in the middle, and a chocolate layer on top.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Canoeing Spas Yoga Meditation Museums Art Galleries

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This is the best time to visit Toronto for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city comes alive with festivals, outdoor dining, and events.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English, French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Punjabi, Spanish, Tagalog, Portuguese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

GMT-5 (Eastern Standard Time, EST) or GMT-4 (Eastern Daylight Time, EDT)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Toronto is generally considered a safe city, but like any major urban center, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Toronto Pearson International Airport • 22.5 km from city center
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport • 3 km from city center

By train

Toronto Union Station

By bus

Toronto Coach Terminal, Union Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The TTC subway system is efficient and widely used. It consists of four lines that connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Toronto Kensington Market Chinatown The Annex Leslieville

Day trips

Niagara Falls

130 km from Toronto • Full day

Niagara Falls is one of the world's most famous natural wonders, offering breathtaking views, boat tours, and a variety of attractions.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

135 km from Toronto • Full day

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming town known for its historic sites, wineries, and beautiful architecture.

Blue Mountain

150 km from Toronto • Full day or overnight

Blue Mountain is a popular year-round destination offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and a charming village with shops and restaurants.

Festivals

Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) • September Pride Toronto • June Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) • August

Pro tips

Visit the Toronto Islands for a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle
Explore the Distillery District for its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant arts scene
Try local craft beers at one of the city's many breweries
Visit during the Toronto Christmas Market for a magical and festive experience
Take a stroll along the waterfront for stunning views of the city skyline